NEW ZEALAND | More Support For drought-affected communities as the coalition Government provides more financial support to drought-stricken farmers and growers in many parts of the country to help with essential living costs.
“Rural Assistance Payments have been made available in 38 districts affected by dry conditions to help eligible farmers and growers whose income has taken a hit,” said Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston.
“These payments have been made available until 10 November 2024, when farmer incomes are expected to lift.”
Farmers and growers in the Northland, Taranaki, Horizons (Manawatu-Whanganui, including Tararua), Greater Wellington (including Wairarapa), Top of the South (Marlborough, Tasman, and Nelson City), Canterbury, and Otago regional council areas, the regions most affected, can now apply for this assistance from MSD.
Rural Communities Minister Mark Patterson emphasised the role of the Rural Support Trust, a trusted source of information and assistance, in supporting struggling farmers or growers. He urged them to contact the Trust to discuss the available support range and get help, if needed, to apply for a Rural Assistance Payment.
“We know droughts can be tough to recover from, and we recognise the lingering effects on affected rural communities.”
Eligibility for a Rural Assistance Payment depends on how much a farmer or grower and their partner earn (not including their farming business) and any money or off-farm assets they have.
